The Beneteau Evasion 32, introduced in the early 1980s, is a classic French motorsailer designed for comfortable cruising with a balance of sailing performance and reliable auxiliary power. This model was conceived by André Bénéteau, who envisioned a versatile and sturdy vessel capable of handling coastal voyages and moderate offshore passages.
Design and Construction
Built with a long keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the Evasion 32 offers solid directional stability and protection for the rudder, which is ideal for cruising sailors prioritizing safety and ease of handling. Its hull construction is fiberglass (FG), ensuring durability and reduced maintenance compared to traditional wooden boats. The rigging features a masthead sloop setup, providing a straightforward sail plan that balances power and simplicity.
Performance
Though primarily designed as a motorsailer, the Evasion 32 performs well under sail with its 484 sq ft sail area, generating respectable power for its size. The long keel helps maintain steady tracking, though it may limit quick maneuverability compared to fin keel boats. The vessel’s displacement and ballast ratio contribute to solid stability, allowing confident handling even in less favorable conditions. The auxiliary diesel engine, typically a Volvo MD11C with around 30 HP, gives ample power for motoring when needed, enhancing versatility.
Comfort and Accommodations
The Evasion 32 offers comfortable accommodations for extended cruising. Its beam of just over 10 feet creates a cozy yet practical interior space, suitable for a small family or couple. Water and fuel tank capacities (53 gallons of water, 40 gallons of fuel) support longer passages without frequent stops. Headroom inside is sufficient for most users, enhancing livability. The design emphasizes a practical layout with a functional galley and comfortable berths, making it an excellent choice for weekenders and coastal cruisers alike.
Safety and Practicality
With a ballast of around 3,500 pounds and a max draft of about 4.75 feet, the Evasion 32 maintains a low center of gravity and a comfortable draft for accessing a wide range of anchorages and marinas. The long keel and skeg rudder arrangement improve directional control and reduce vulnerability to grounding damage. The capsize screening formula and comfort ratio suggest a stable and safe boat for moderate offshore conditions. Additionally, the simplicity of the rig and strong construction make this model practical for sailors seeking reliability and ease of maintenance.
Conclusion
The Beneteau Evasion 32 remains a solid choice for sailors looking for a classic motorsailer with balanced sailing and motoring capabilities. Its sturdy construction, comfortable accommodations, and forgiving handling characteristics make it an appealing boat for coastal cruising and leisurely adventures. While not designed for high-performance racing, the Evasion 32 delivers dependable comfort and safety, embodying the traditional French cruising spirit.
Specifications
| Hull Type | Long Keel |
|---|---|
| Rigging Type | Masthead Ketch |
| LOA | 31.82 ft / 9.70 m |
| LWL | 23.95 ft / 7.30 m |
| S.A. (reported) | 524.00 ft² / 48.68 m² |
| Beam | 9.84 ft / 3.00 m |
| Displacement | 12,676.00 lb / 5,750 kg |
| Ballast | 3,968.00 lb / 1,800 kg |
| Max Draft | 4.50 ft / 1.37 m |
| Construction | FG |
| First Built | 1973 |
| Last Built | 1981 |
| # Built | 286 |
| Builder | Beneteau (FRA) |
| Designer | André Bénéteau |
Auxiliary Power/Tanks (orig. equip.) | |
| Make | Renault |
| Type | Diesel |
| HP | 30 |
| Fuel | 32 gals / 121 L |
Accommodations | |
| Water | 53 gals / 201 L |
Sailboat Calculations | |
| S.A. / Displ. | 15.48 |
| Bal. / Displ. | 31.30 |
| Disp: / Len | 411.92 |
| Comfort Ratio | 35.42 |
| Capsize Screening Formula | 1.69 |
| Hull Speed | 6.56 kn |
| Pounds/Inch Immersion | 842.07 pounds/inch |
Disclaimer
The considerations and analyses presented regarding the Beneteau Evasion 32 sailboat are of a general nature and are based on the available information and technical data on this model, interpreted to the best of our knowledge and understanding. It is important to note that the specific characteristics of any particular sailboat may vary due to custom modifications, maintenance performed, and conditions of use over time, among other factors. Therefore, the details and performance of the boat you are considering may not exactly match the information provided here.
We strongly recommend that, before making any purchasing or usage decisions, you conduct a detailed inspection of the boat in question, consult with nautical professionals and other sailors, and consider your personal needs, expectations, and capabilities. Each sailboat may have unique particularities that affect its performance and suitability for different types of sailing and sailors.
The information contained in this analysis should be used as a general guide and not as a definitive reference. Professional evaluation and personal inspection are essential to ensure that the boat meets your specific requirements and expectations.